Rivalries & Top Games to Attend

Mid-America Classic

Rival Team: Illinois State Redbirds

The Mid-America Classic between Eastern Illinois and Illinois State began in 1901 and is the oldest college football rivalry in Illinois. Despite not having played in the same conference since 1995 the two schools typically meet each year helping preserve the intense rivalry. Illinois State leads the all-time series 54-41-9, but you won’t want to miss it when the Panthers try to draw nearer when these two meet.

Eastern Illinois vs Indiana State

Rival Team: Indiana State Sycamores

Fans of both the Panthers and Sycamores travel well to the away games for this rivalry as the schools are only 50 miles apart. The Eastern Illinois-Indiana State rivalry was renewed in 2017, and the two schools will play a home and home series until 2020, so make sure to get your tickets when the Sycamores come to town.

Eastern Illinois vs Western Illinois

Rival Team: Western Illinois Leathernecks

The in-state rivalry between the Eastern Illinois Panthers and the Western Illinois Leathernecks dates back to 1930. The two teams were conference rivals until the Panthers move to the Ohio Valley Conference in 1996 developing a lot of bad blood between the two programs. While the rivalry hasn’t been played regularly since then, you won’t want to miss it when these two teams meet next.

SuperTailgate Awards

If you enjoyed this post, sign up for our monthly Tailgate & Ticket Giveaway!

100% Privacy. We will never spam you.

Leave this field empty if you're human:

Fast facts

League: NCAA Division I FCS

Team:Eastern Illinois Panthers

Head Coach: Kim Dameron

Team Mascot: Billy the Panther

Year Opened:1970

Capacity:10000

City / State:Charleston / Illinois

Ever forget something
for a Tailgate?

This checklist will ensure you never forget an item for
your tailgate ever again. Download today to have the best time Possible!